Former DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond Announces 2026 Georgia Governor Bid

Michael Thurmond, former DeKalb County CEO and Georgia Labor Commissioner, officially announced his 2026 gubernatorial bid, aiming to become the first Democrat elected governor in Georgia this century. Thurmond, who has a long history of public service including stabilizing the DeKalb County school system and serving multiple statewide terms, positions himself as a bridge-builder focused on everyday issues like healthcare, cost of living, and ending political divisiveness. He pledges to use state resources to offset federal cuts under President Donald Trump's policies, such as Medicaid reductions and food stamp cuts, emphasizing support for working families regardless of political allegiance. Thurmond joins a crowded Democratic field that includes former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, state Sen. Jason Esteves, and others, while the Republican side features Attorney General Chris Carr and Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, both associated with Trump-aligned agendas. Known for his bipartisan approach and ability to win votes beyond metro Atlanta, Thurmond emphasizes healing racial and political divides and advancing Georgia’s progress. His campaign reflects a blend of long-standing party priorities with pragmatic governance aimed at appealing to a broad electorate.